In California, emancipation means Winter (who turns 18 in January) is no longer under the control or custody of her parents or guardians and must support herself in regards to, for example, medical care, education, work permits, and housing.

“I am now officially emancipated!!! I’m really lucky I have an amazing support system and lovely people in my life who have given me the support and guidance to have been given this wonderful opportunity. Most importantly I want to thank @shanelle_gray and my father for their special support regarding this matter, I really couldn’t have done it without them. Thank you to all of my family, friends, and fans who have supported me through all of my endeavors in life, and have encouraged me. Thank you for making my life so special! I can’t wait to embark on my new adventures. ❤️ xo”

She gave a special mention to her older sister, Shanelle Gray, who has been her temporary guardian since 2012 after the Department of Children and Family Services removed her from her mother Chrisoula Workman’s home, amid emotional and physical abuse allegations.

Her father, Glenn Workman, was put in charge of her finances.

For Mother’s Day last weekend, Winter also paid tribute to Gray on Instagram:

http://instagram.com/p/2hgFQBkxQy/

Workman fought against the court’s decision until last May, settling the case before it went to trial. Last year, they released a statement saying: “The family has moved beyond the conflict.”